We have loads of the self serve checkouts here in the UK. I use them quite a lot, unless I have loads of stuff, or if I'm buying alcohol, as it takes them ages to come over and ID me. Easier to go the the proper checkout for that.

Wait, hold on, have I missed something? They pack the bags FOR you in the US? Like do they automatically do it, or do they ask you first? Over here they ask us if we need any help with our packing, but they we don't actually have designated people to do it for us. I'm jealous!

When SO and I do our weekly shopping, she is in charge of the checkout and bagging process. I have to load the belt with perishables first so they can go in the cooler bag (in the summer) then other items. She supervises the bagging (we have reusable bags) much to the bagger's dismay. 'Put the meat in a separate bag.' 'No more in that bag, it's too heavy.', etc. I keep telling her not to worry about heavy bags as I'm the one who carries them into the house. I should get her a riding crop and monocle.
..
She told one bagger to put the perishables in the cooler bag and he asked, "What's a perishable?"!

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"If you want to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first create the universe." -Carl Sagan